Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of colonoscopies

The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals have a colonoscopy starting at the age of 45. Current guidelines also recommend to have a colonoscopy every 10 years if your colonoscopy was normal. There are multiple risk factors that can increase your risk of colorectal cancer including: • Personal or family history of colon cancer or colon polyps• Past/current smokers• Older age Individuals considered to be at an increased risk of colorectal cancer may need to have a colonoscopy completed more frequently than every 10 years and may also be performed prior to the age of 45. A colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure that enables either a gastroenterologist or general surgeon to examine your colon and rectum. Colonoscopies are performed to assist in early detection and prevention of colon cancer. Colon polyp(s) may also be removed if discovered during a colonoscopy to assist in prevention of colon cancer. Preventative care, such as routine colonoscopies as recommended by your primary care provider, gastroenterologist, or general surgeon are vital to both digestive health and overall well-being. If you have any questions or concerns about having a colonoscopy, you can contact your primary care provider or Fisher-Titus Digestive Health. Same day appointments are also available and can be scheduled through our online self-scheduling service at fishertitus.org/schedule. Fisher-Titus Digestive Health also offers convenient Virtual Visits to diagnose and treat a wide range of complications involving your digestive system. Beth Steinmetz is a Certified Nurse Practitioner at Fisher-Titus Digestive Health. Fisher-Titus offers Digestive Health services at our Norwalk location in Medical Park 3 as well as convenient Telehealth services. To learn more or schedule an appointment, go to fishertitus.org/digestive- health/.